Chicago Blackhawks, Marty Turco Searching For Confidence

Much of the early season talk has revolved around the hot streak of Marian Hossa and the slow starts of Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews.

What has been pretty clear amongst the players is the confidence in Marty Turco in between the pipes.

Fans and players alike have read through media regarding the desires of Turco wanting to join an organization rich in history. Many know of the background in which he came from.

Comments made like “Dallas didn’t have the supporting cast Chicago does” and “Chicago will be capable of winning more games.”

After a little over a week into the season, you can take a look at the standings and many can bet that Dallas wouldn’t have shot out of the gates like they have. After a dominating win over Detroit, one has to wonder what may be running through Turco’s mind.

It has been made pretty clear that the Blackhawks are a very youthful team. The turnovers and penalties at detrimental times in a game have proven the inexperience and lack of confidence.

Regardless of how long any player has been in the league, if someone like Nick Boynton or John Scott is asked to play a significant amount of more minutes than used to, then you take a big risk.

With a defense riddled already by injury and a suspension, you ask too much of third line defenseman to fill holes and pick up the slack. To fill in defensively is one thing, but in the NHL the only way a team can win consistently is to have a constant offensive threat.

This means defenseman must be able to utilize point-play and have the ability to put quality shots on goal. Otherwise you find that smart opposition will notice the minimal threat and concentrate on forwards working near the crease.

This adds stress to many players, including goaltenders, Turco and Corey Crawford. A goalie shouldn't have to worry about a delay of game penalty or a defensive zone turnover late in the game.

Clearly the Blackhawks have some loose ends and don’t have the ability to play Duncan Keith all game long.

While building confidence is the first step in getting a team on the same page, the Blackhawks need to do so by showing some sense of urgency. The league will not wait for them to turn-around the mediocre effort… they will be looking to bury the defending Champions.